Today we got to visit ČEZ, one of the largest energy companies not just in the Czech Republic, but in all of Europe. It’s the leading energy provider here, and honestly, walking into their headquarters made it clear how central they are to the country’s infrastructure and future. What really struck me was how ČEZ isn’t just about generating power they’re actively shaping the Czech Republic’s energy transition and future sustainability.
One of the highlights of the day was our trip to the brown coal mines. Seeing the machinery in action was incredible these weren’t just big machines, they were massive, high-functioning systems that looked like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie. Watching them dig up the brown coal and learning about the extraction process gave me a whole new appreciation for the sheer scale and complexity of energy production. There’s a whole world behind the flick of a light switch that we often don’t think about.
What really impressed me is that ČEZ isn’t just sticking to coal. Their long-term vision is centered on sustainability. In fact, by 2033, they’re planning to open another nuclear energy plant as part of their shift toward cleaner, more stable energy sources. This aligns with the European Union’s broader regulations and goals around reducing carbon emissions. It was encouraging to see such a large company investing in long-term, future-forward solutions while still balancing the realities of their current energy demands.
Overall, today gave me a deeper understanding of how complex and critical energy systems are and how engineering, policy, and innovation all play a role in keeping countries running. It made me even more curious about the future of energy and what role I might play in it one day.
Swanson School of Engineering 